Dynamics of Intrapersonal and Interpersonal Communication: A Study of Indochinese Refugees in the Initial Phase of Acculturation.

Kim, Young Y.

The psychological and social adjustment patterns of 809 Indochinese refugee heads of household in Illinois were examined by collecting data on their intrapersonal and interpersonal communication patterns. Four of five propositions derived from an interactive communication theory of the acculturation process were supported. The Indochinese refugee's interpersonal communication with Americans was positively related to a positive self-image, to perceptions of similarity between self and Americans, to lower feelings of alienation, and to greater English competence. Although the proposed relationship between the immigrant's acculturation motivation and interpersonal communication with Americans was not supported, the low reliability of the measurement items used in that portion of the survey discourages a decisive conclusion. (Author/RL)